The new code seeks to change this as it guides organisations on how to run, promote and review effective whistle-blowing arrangements.

Guy Dehn, director of Public Concern at Work, said: “Ten years ago the UK passed the most far-reaching whistle-blowing legislation in the world to protect employees who blow the whistle on organisations doing wrong. The code published today is equally important as it sets out how organisations can get this right in the first place.”

The guide was developed by a steering group which included the Audit Commission, the Institute of Directors and TUC.